If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you can’t go wrong with this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe. This timeless dish layers tender chicken and wide egg noodles in a creamy blend of soups and sour cream, all topped with melted cheddar and a golden crunchy crust that makes every bite pure bliss. It’s truly the kind of casserole that brings everyone to the table, perfect for family dinners or any time you want to indulge in a classic dish that stands the test of time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create a rich and creamy casserole bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken providing hearty protein to the crunchy cracker topping that adds that satisfying contrast.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: The star protein, cooked just right to stay juicy and tender.
- 8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked and drained: These noodles soak up the creamy sauce for that perfect tender bite.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds savory depth and smoothness to the casserole base.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Complements the chicken soup with earthiness and richness.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tang and creaminess to brighten the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce for perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers gentle warmth and aroma without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory undertones and rounds out the seasoning.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Adds melty, sharp richness throughout the dish.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional): For a pop of color, sweetness, and extra nutrients.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy, golden breadcrumb topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the topping ingredients and imparts a buttery finish.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch at the end.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep your oven and dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish, ensuring your casserole won’t stick and will crisp up nicely on the edges. This sets the stage for a perfectly baked dish that’s easy to serve and clean up.
Step 2: Combine the creamy base
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked chicken and egg noodles with the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, sour cream, and milk. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder, then stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything gently until the sauce is creamy and the ingredients are evenly coated. This blend creates the luscious heart of the casserole.
Step 3: Add veggies and seasoning
Fold in the frozen peas and carrots if you like a little extra color and texture. They add sweetness and freshness that brighten the hearty layers. Taste and season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference to bring out the very best flavors.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole
Pour your creamy chicken and noodle mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, letting it melt into a bubbly, golden blanket as it bakes. This cheese layer adds an irresistible look and deliciously gooey texture.
Step 5: Prepare the crunchy topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs with melted butter. Toss until every crumb is richly coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over your casserole, so it bakes into a beautifully crisp, golden crust that contrasts the creamy filling.
Step 6: Bake until bubbly and golden
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see the edges bubbling with joy and the topping lightly browned to perfection. This step melds the flavors together and creates that classic comforting texture everyone loves.
Step 7: Rest and garnish
Once out of the oven, give your casserole a few minutes to settle. This helps everything thicken slightly for perfect serving. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top if you want a fresh, colorful garnish that will make your dish look as inviting as it tastes.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A scattering of chopped parsley or fresh thyme over the warm casserole brightens the dish visually and adds a hint of herbaceous freshness that balances the richness of the creamy noodles and chicken beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple green salads, steamed green beans, or roasted veggies that add a crisp, light contrast. A crusty bread roll on the side is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style meal, present the casserole directly in the baking dish with a big serving spoon for a warm, inviting feel. To dress it up for guests, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a fresh herb sprig, making it feel special and personalized.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen, and reheating is quick and easy.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Assemble it completely, then cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed to enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Reheating
Reheat portions gently in the microwave or oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or covering the dish loosely can help keep it moist and creamy, just like the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas and carrots?
Absolutely! Fresh peas and diced carrots can be steamed briefly before adding or even sautéed to bring a bright, fresh crunch to the casserole. Just be sure they’re tender before baking to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries! You can substitute with another 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup or make a quick homemade mushroom sauce for an extra personal touch.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use lactose-free sour cream and milk substitutes like almond or oat milk, and swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative. The texture might vary slightly but the flavors remain comforting.
Is it possible to use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes, this recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover chicken. Whether from roast chicken or rotisserie, just shred or dice it, and it will add great flavor and convenience to the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free egg noodles or substitute with rice noodles, and swap the crushed crackers topping with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check canned soup labels to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe is a true classic that delivers warmth, comfort, and a satisfying blend of flavors with every forkful. It’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough to serve for gathering around the table. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation to bring smiles and cozy vibes to your home.
Print
Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for a family dinner. Combining tender cooked chicken, wide egg noodles, creamy soups, and a cheesy breadcrumb topping, it delivers rich flavors and a satisfying texture all baked to golden perfection in under an hour.
Ingredients
Chicken and Noodle Mixture
- 3 cups Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz Wide egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup Frozen peas and carrots (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup Crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Melted butter
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked egg noodles, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add vegetables and season: Fold in the frozen peas and carrots if using, adding extra color and nutrition to the casserole. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing gently to distribute evenly.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Prepare crumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer to create a crunchy, golden crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the top is lightly browned and crisp.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving.
Notes
- Using cooked chicken from a rotisserie or leftover roast chicken works perfectly for ease and flavor.
- Wide egg noodles are recommended for the best texture, but other pasta shapes can be substituted.
- Adding frozen peas and carrots is optional but enhances taste and nutrition.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free noodles, soups, and bread crumbs.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
